Security Council Open Debate on Sexual Violence in Conflict, April 2018: Switzerland
Security Council Open Debate on Sexual Violence in Conflict, April 2018: Switzerland (Extract 1)
The widespread fear of reprisals and stigma discourages people subjected to sexual violence from coming forward. Law enforcement agencies are therefore important partners in dealing with violence. Therefore, Switzerland supports police and armed forces by training them about compliance with existing legislation and how to take a victim-centred approach when handling cases of sexual violence. Often the first step is to increase public trust in the police. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, we have been supporting police ‘Open Door’ days for local people. In Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Nepal, Switzerland has worked with local police forces.
Security Council Open Debate on Sexual Violence in Conflict, April 2018: Switzerland (Extract 2)
Let me turn to gender equality as the principle means of prevention. There is a strong empirical connection between the lack of gender equality in a society and readiness to take up arms. A thorough analysis of the dynamics of gender equality can therefore help to design tailor-made programmes to prevent conflicts from breaking out. This is why Switzerland’s 4th National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security will also focus on promoting gender-responsive security sector reform and the deployment of mixed teams in military and police units.
Security Council Open Debate on Sexual Violence in Conflict, April 2018: Switzerland (Extract 3)
We are not only talking about women’s empowerment. Men also need empowerment and education in order to transform traditional gender-relations and put an end to harmful behavioural patterns. Including men and boys as allies, as potential victims or perpetrators, and as champions for gender-equality – is crucial in any conflict and violence prevention strategy.